Welcome to Hwa Chong Institution!
So, what constitutes the Hwa Chong Spirit?
Secondly, it is the enduring spirit of community and service to others, as expressed in the school value of WIN-WIN or “己立立人，己达达人”. Guided by a deep sense of humility and gratitude to others who have nurtured or developed us (饮水思源)，it is to consciously seek a virtuous and meaningful cause larger than oneself, with an innate understanding that the greatest self-worth that one can achieve is the selfless and wholehearted contribution to the greater “I” (大我), by bestowing self-worth and success to others and the community. I-Ching also offers a similar worldview as captured in the Kun (坤) hexagram which depicts how nature nurtures life and supports growth. (地势坤，君子以厚德载物。)
Together, “己立立人，己达达人” and “自强不息” complement each other and form the Yin and Yang of a balanced disposition and character. It also describes how the cultivation of one’s heart and mind should not cease at the personal mastery level, but should be extended to an active contribution towards the betterment of society and humanity, including the family, nation and the global community (修身、齐家、治国、平天下).
Indeed, these values are exemplified by the life stories and outstanding work of our forefathers, including Mr Tan Kah Kee and Mr Lee Kong Chian, whose statues stand tall in the school campus and continue to inspire generations of Hwa Chongians. As one of the earliest industrial pioneers in this region, our founder, Mr Tan Kah Kee, made a profound impact in Singapore, Southeast Asia and China through his resilience and enterprising spirit. The commitment in devoting his life and fortune wholeheartedly to establish the school as well as many other education causes embodies the enduring spirit of community and service.
Likewise, Mr Lee Kong Chian spent much of his time and wealth in education and other philanthropic work to carve out a better future for the Chinese community during his time. He made significant contributions to Hwa Chong in many ways and served on the school board for a good 38 years, helping the school to tide over difficult times. Even till today, generations continue to benefit from the legacy of our founders, through their selfless contributions in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, social reform and education. Their passion and courage to rise above social norms and seek out a better life for all in the face of multiple challenges continue to be an inspiration not just for Hwa Chongians, but for all Singaporeans.
Today, as Hwa Chong remains anchored on values education, we are equally committed to the quest to spearhead innovation and lead change, so that we continue to stay current and relevant in a fast-evolving world environment. Our focus on critical thinking, entrepreneurship and leadership will equip students with the skills they need to thrive in this changing landscape. Equally important is bilingual proficiency and a bicultural outlook that Hwa Chong seeks to inculcate in all of our students, so that Hwa Chongians are adept at learning and assimilating the best from both the East and the West, develop a holistic worldview and navigate confidently across different cultures.
The campus is being constantly refreshed with new facilities that continue to create a conducive and enriching environment for all. We look forward to the completion of projects this year such as the installation of lifts at both the College and High School, an upgraded Tech Centre as an Innovation Hub housing new facilities such as AI Lab, a refurbished Heritage Centre, as well as technology-enabled learning spaces. All these bring us closer to our vision of creating a Smart and Green Campus which delivers a future-ready and robust curriculum for our staff and students.
As Singapore continues to navigate through the post-pandemic environment, there will be diverse opportunities for Hwa Chongians. We are confident that our society will regain its pre-Covid vibrancy and there is an air of excitement to what this may bring. For instance, our sports and performing arts teams will be engaged in reinvigorated activities and competitions such as the National School Games and the Singapore Youth Festival 2023. I urge you to avail yourself of these different avenues to hone your skills and nurture your passions.
Our founders’ firm dedication towards the betterment of Singapore inspires us daily, and urges us to put forth our utmost in each endeavour. We also acknowledge the unyielding support of MOE and the commitment of our board members, alumni, parents, school leaders, staff, educators and partners, both past and present, who have contributed generously and travelled alongside the school through the years. It is this strong family spirit, passion and belief by all members of Hwa Chong that has made us more than a school.
May the year of the Rabbit bring you much joy, peace and fulfilment!
Pang Choon How
Principal
Hwa Chong Institution